Safe Keeping... Even in a Digital World, a Safe is a Good Idea

We've covered the issue of disaster preparation and business continuity several times over the years, especially after Hurricane Katrina.

Accounting is a technology-driven profession, so we've generally approached the topic of preparation by focusing on subjects such as remote backup and using web-based systems to allow a firm to keep working even if disaster strikes.

There are, however, some things that can't easily be stored digitally, and that's where the safe comes in. Whether they are data backup CDs, passports, original copies of mortgages and birth certificates, or paper financial, education or employment records, a safe or fire-proof box can provide security.

Along these lines, the new Guardian Storage Box from SentrySafe caught my eye. Billed as the first-ever fire-resistant storage box, the Guardian is a long-term storage container that offers protection from fire, water and other environmental damage.

“In today’s economy, it’s more important than ever for businesses to protect their valuable data and be cost-efficient,” said Jim Brush, SentrySafe president and CEO. “In addition to being the first of its kind, the Guardian Storage Box provides tremendous value for the safe storage of your critical business archives. In fact, two Guardian Storage Boxes are 65 percent less expensive than a standard two-drawer fire file while providing the same storage capacity.”

The Guardian Storage Box ($159.99) holds both letter and legal-sized documents; has basic fire protection which is ETL Verified for 20 minutes fire protection at 1200ºF /649ºC; and ETL Verified spray resistant for protection from water.

SentrySafe also has a new line of more traditional safes called Big Bolts Safes (start at $199), because they have 60% bigger locking bolts, a full-length pry-resistant hinge bar to provide additional security against unauthorized access and improved lock technology to make authorized access easier. They also protect against fire and water submersion, and are available with spin combination or digital locks.

Both are available at major retailers, including Wal-Mart, Target and office supply chains.